How I Gave Myself Insomnia: The Haka Dancing Soldier Video

If you are one of the millions of people in the U.S. who have a tough time sleeping, you might not want to watch this video. Or maybe you should, because you’re awake anyway. I only say this because it is rhythmically hypnotic and I’ve watched it, like, 12 times now in just the past hour. I can’t seem to stop myself.

The soldiers in this video, part of New Zealand’s Limited Service Volunteer (LSV) Company, are performing a traditional Maori Haka dance. If you watch rugby, you may have seen the New Zealand team display this dance form. It’s a posture dance, performed by a synchronized group, featuring shouting rhythmic chants, swift, energetic movement and lots of foot stamping. Back in the day, the Maori created War Hakas to intimidate the opposition. The War Haka in particular sent a clear message of strength and prowess. I think that message comes across loud and clear from this performance.

I would love to know how long it took this troop to master the choreography and the chants – it is impressive! It had to have been a huge undertaking, and looks like it was an amazing experience. The intensity of the movements and chants are what make the Haka so mesmerizing.